7 Clear Signs It's Time to Hire a Property Manager
How to Know When DIY Landlording Is Costing You More Than It’s Saving
Managing your own rental property can feel empowering—until it doesn’t. Between tenant issues, surprise repairs, legal responsibilities, and mounting to-do lists, even the most hands-on landlords hit a wall. If you’re questioning whether it’s time to hire a property manager, you’re likely already seeing the signs.
In this article, we break down the 7 biggest indicators that it’s time to call in the pros. Whether you own a single rental in Tacoma or a growing portfolio across the South Sound, knowing when to delegate could save your bottom line - and your sanity
1. You’re Spending More Time Managing Than Making Money
If you’re constantly juggling maintenance calls, rent collection, or tenant complaints, you’re not earning passive income—you’re working a second job. A property manager handles the day-to-day so you can focus on scaling your investments (or simply enjoying your life).
2. Your Property Is Vacant Too Long or Priced Incorrectly
Long vacancies can drain your profits, and improper pricing—too high or too low—can scare off qualified renters or leave money on the table. At Starboard Real Estate, we use local market insights, professional listings, and digital marketing to fill units faster with the right tenants.
3. You’re Not Local (or Not Always Available)
If your rentals are in Tacoma, Bonney Lake, or Lakewood but you live elsewhere—or just don’t have time to be on-call—things can fall through the cracks. Local property managers ensure quick response times, on-site oversight, and tenant satisfaction that remote owners often can’t match.
4. Tenant Issues Are Taking a Toll on You
Chasing late rent, managing disputes, or dealing with lease violations can wear anyone down. A skilled property manager acts as a buffer, applying clear policies and professional communication to handle tough situations objectively.
5. You’re Behind on Washington State Rental Laws
Regulations in Washington—especially in cities like Tacoma—change frequently. From eviction procedures to fair housing laws, staying compliant is complex. Property management companies are trained to protect your assets and keep you on the right side of the law.
6. Maintenance Requests Are Overwhelming
From leaky sinks to emergency repairs, maintenance issues are inevitable. If vendor scheduling, budgeting, or quality control is stressing you out, it’s time to outsource. Starboard Property Services—our in-house operations team—handles repairs, turnovers, and curb appeal with precision and care.
7. You’re Ready to Grow, But Stuck in the Weeds
Maybe you’re ready to buy your next investment property—but you can’t even keep up with the ones you have. Hiring a property manager frees up your bandwidth so you can think strategically, pursue new opportunities, and grow with confidence.
Don’t Wait Until It’s a Crisis
Too many landlords wait until something goes wrong to seek help. But hiring a property manager is a proactive investment, not a reactive expense. When you partner with a firm like Starboard Real Estate, you’re not just getting help—you’re gaining a team of local experts who treat your rental like a long-term business.
Contact Us Today
If managing your rental is starting to feel like more of a burden than a benefit, we’re here to help. Reach out to Starboard Real Estate today for a free consultation—and discover how easy property ownership can be with the right team behind you.
📞 Call us at (253) 988-6600
📧 Email info@starboard.realestate
🖱️ Or contact us directly to get started today.
